Talbot County, Maryland

09/09/2025

Category: Partner Agencies County Manager’s Office County Council

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Behind each case, there is a team of individuals that help to assist and lead individuals to a successful outcome.

The Circuit Court for Talbot County’s Problem-Solving Court (PSC) proudly celebrated its most recent graduate, Kyle, who successfully completed the program and joins a growing community of individuals who have worked tirelessly to transform their lives. The graduation was held during National Recovery Month in September, a fitting time to highlight the power of treatment courts in breaking the cycle of addiction.

Sheriff Joe Gamble delivered the keynote address, reminding attendees of the resilience displayed by participants. “Those who face the most adversity in their lives often become our greatest heroes,” said Gamble.

Talbot County Circuit Court Judge Philip T. Cronan provided an overview of Talbot County’s Problem-Solving Courts and was followed by the graduate providing their recovery journey through the program.

“National Recovery Month reminds us that recovery is not only possible, it happens every day. [The] Adult Drug Court graduation is a powerful example of that truth,” said Talbot County Circuit Court Judge Philip T. Cronan. “Graduates face tremendous challenges, yet through accountability, treatment, and perseverance, they can rebuild their lives. Celebrating these milestones is vital part of the process as it provides hope to those who still may be struggling and reinforces the court’s commitment to supporting every individual’s journey toward a healthier, brighter future.”

A Statewide and National Movement

In Fiscal Year 2024, the Maryland Judiciary proudly marked 30 years of Problem-Solving Courts. What began in 1994 with the launch of Maryland's first PSC, the Baltimore City Adult District Drug Court, has since evolved into a network of 68 PSCs across the state. These courts bring together teams of professionals who work daily to help participants overcome substance use disorders, mental health challenges, veteran recovery, and truancy.

During FY 2024, 2,569 individuals participated in Maryland’s PSCs, and judges and magistrates met with program participants nearly 23,963 times. By combining accountability with evidence-based treatment and behavioral health services, PSCs continue to transform lives and strengthen communities across the state.

Nationwide, treatment courts are recognized as the most effective intervention for individuals struggling with addiction and justice involvement. Research shows they reduce crime by an average of 58% and save more than $6,000 per individual served. Beyond cost savings, these programs improve employment, education, housing, family stability, and public safety.

Success Stories Beyond the Ceremony

While the focus of this ceremony was on Kyle’s graduation achievement, the PSC program continues to produce success stories in Talbot County.

Zeke, who graduated in July after more than three years in the program, now works as a weekend peer mentor at Grace Street Recovery, a community organization dedicated to saving lives and fostering healing for anyone affected by a substance use disorder.

His dedication to helping others is already making a difference: most recently, he ensured that a peer made it to rehab on time, potentially saving that individual’s life. Zeke’s journey shows that while each path to graduation is different, the long-term impact of the program is both profound and far-reaching.

A Proven Solution

“Behind every case is a person, a family, and a story,” said Talbot County Problem-Solving Court Coordinator Kelly Stacey. “When substance use or mental health issues go untreated, people often end up back in the justice system again and again. Treatment courts change that by providing structure, support, and real accountability. We see people go from struggling to thriving, and that’s the success we want for every participant.”

With approximately 4,000 treatment courts operating nationwide, the success of Talbot County’s program is part of a larger movement proving that treatment courts work.

Celebrating National Recovery Month

September’s National Recovery Month provides an important opportunity to celebrate these successes and to highlight the ways treatment courts cut crime, save taxpayer money, and—most importantly—change lives. Stories like Kyle’s and Zeke’s are powerful reminders that recovery is possible and worth investing in.

This local celebration also aligns with Talbot Goes Purple, a countywide initiative that raises awareness about substance use prevention and recovery during September. Together, these efforts shine a light on the importance of treatment, support, and community partnerships in helping individuals and families heal.

For more information about Problem-Solving Courts in Maryland, visit: www.mdcourts.gov/opsc.

Talbot Goes Purple (TGP) is a community substance use prevention initiative in Talbot County, Maryland, aimed at raising awareness about substance abuse and empowering youth to stand against it. To learn more about Talbot Goes Purple, visit: www.talbotgoespurple.org.

Grace Street Recovery is a recovery community organization (RCO) dedicated to saving lives and fostering healing for anyone affected by substance use disorder. Learn more at: www.gracestreetrecovery.org.

National Recovery Month (Recovery Month), which started in 1989, is a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible. For more information, including resources, visit: www.naadac.org/national-recovery-month.

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